TV and Short Stories and Movies and Novels





Using TV episodes and movies in the classroom helps to bridge the cultural gap between the classroom and home.

Before using media in the classroom, pay close attention to content and rules and procedures the district may have in place. For novel studies, the lessons and connections may have to be expounded upon more. When using media, the teacher should make connections between elements in literature and elements in film (plot, characterization, style, tone, use of visual imagery and lighting, etc.). Using video will also help students to grasp viewing strategies, such as predicting, connecting, evaluating, and reflecting. ESOL students can also benefit from viewing and listening to media that corresponds with what they are reading.

Example:
Some high school students will read Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead by Tom Stoppard. The following is a clip from the movie version. Students can view this version and discuss similarities and differences between the play and film as well as choices made by the director:
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead